When you’re short on time but still crave a delicious, home-cooked meal, there’s nothing better than crispy chicken tenders and fries. This classic comfort food is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep and simple ingredients.
Forget about waiting in drive-thrus! In this guide, you’ll learn how to make restaurant-style chicken tenders and fries at home using different cooking methods—frying, baking, and air frying. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or a family-friendly meal, this recipe has you covered!
Why Chicken Tenders and Fries Are the Perfect Weeknight Meal
If you love quick and easy dinners, you’ll appreciate how fast and versatile this meal is. Here’s why you should add this recipe to your rotation:
- Super Fast: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love crispy chicken tenders and fries.
- Customizable: Cook them in an air fryer, oven, or deep fryer.
- Healthier Than Takeout: You control the ingredients and cooking method.
According to the USDA, properly cooked chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure food safety. Following these guidelines will keep your meal both delicious and safe to eat.
For a healthier alternative, you can also opt for air-fried chicken tenders instead of deep-fried ones. Studies from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health suggest reducing fried foods for heart health.
Ingredients You Need for Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into strips)
- 1 cup buttermilk (for marinating)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Fries:
- 2 large russet potatoes (cut into fries)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
Dipping Sauces:
- Honey mustard
- Ranch dressing
- BBQ sauce
- Spicy mayo
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Chicken Tenders and Fries
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Soak the chicken strips in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for maximum tenderness).
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
- In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs.
- In a third bowl, add panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, dip into the eggs, then coat with panko for extra crispiness.
Step 3: Cooking Methods
Option 1: Frying (Traditional & Crispy)
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry each tender for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Option 2: Baking (Healthier Choice)
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Option 3: Air Frying (Crispy & Low-Oil)
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray chicken lightly with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Step 4: Cook the Fries
- Toss the potato strips with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Or air fry at 380°F (195°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Pro Tips & Variations for the Best Chicken Tenders and Fries
- Extra Crispy Hack: Add cornstarch to the flour mixture.
- Spicy Version: Mix cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the marinade.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Loaded Fries Upgrade: Add melted cheese, bacon bits, and green onions.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your chicken tenders and fries with these sides:
- Classic: Coleslaw, mac & cheese, or a fresh green salad.
- Healthy: Roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad.
- Wrap It Up: Make a crispy chicken tender wrap with lettuce and ranch dressing.
Quick and Easy Chicken Tenders and Fries for Busy Weeknights
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into strips)
- 1 cup buttermilk for marinating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs beaten
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
- For the Fries:
- 2 large russet potatoes cut into fries
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Dipping Sauces:
- Honey mustard
- Ranch dressing
- BBQ sauce
- Spicy mayo
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Soak the chicken strips in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for maximum tenderness).
- Step 2: Coat the Chicken
- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs.
- In a third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, dip into the eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
- Step 3: Cook the Chicken Tenders
- Choose your preferred cooking method:
- Option 1: Frying (Traditional & Crispy)
- Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry each tender for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
- Option 2: Baking (Healthier Choice)
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Option 3: Air Frying (Crispy & Low-Oil)
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Step 4: Cook the Fries
- Toss the potato strips with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- For Baking: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- For Air Frying: Air fry at 380°F (195°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Serving Suggestions
- Serve your crispy chicken tenders and fries with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, or spicy mayo. Enjoy your quick and delicious weeknight meal!
Notes
- Marinate for Extra Tenderness: 🕒 Let the chicken sit in the buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) to get that super tender texture. 🐔💧
- For Extra Crispiness: 🍞 Add cornstarch to the flour mixture for an even crispier crust! 😋
- Spicy Kick: 🌶️ Want some heat? Add cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy twist! 🔥
- Healthier Option: 🥦 Choose air frying or baking for a lighter version with less oil! 🌱
- Custom Fries: 🍟 Feel free to add your favorite seasonings to the fries—garlic powder, parmesan, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs! 🧄🧀
- Freezer-Friendly: ❄️ You can freeze the breaded chicken tenders before frying or baking. Just cook them straight from frozen—add a few extra minutes of cooking time! ⏱️
- Dipping Sauce Galore: 🥳 Mix up your sauces! Honey mustard, ranch, BBQ, spicy mayo… the possibilities are endless! 😍
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I Make Chicken Tenders Ahead of Time?
Yes! Store cooked tenders in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in an oven or air fryer for crispiness.
Q2: How Do I Make Them Extra Crispy?
Use panko breadcrumbs and double-coat the tenders for extra crunch.
Q3: Can I Freeze Chicken Tenders?
Yes! Bread them, freeze them raw, and cook straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes.
Q4: What’s the Best Oil for Frying?
Use vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil for the crispiest results.
Q5: Can I Use Frozen Fries Instead of Fresh Potatoes?
Absolutely! Just follow the package instructions and adjust cooking time accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Making chicken tenders and fries at home is easy, quick, and way better than takeout! Whether you fry, bake, or air fry, this recipe guarantees crispy, juicy tenders and perfectly seasoned fries.
Now that you know the secrets to making the best homemade chicken tenders, give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments! Happy cooking! 🍗🍟